belt tensioner

[digglesworth]

So how much movement is the tensioner supposed to have? Mine isn't really making a whole lot of noises yet but I can see it wobbling around a bit... I'm thinking about changing it out since its not a major expense...

 

[SolidusJ]

Well I would say half and inch or more but that's me.

 

[Best4x4]

Yeah I'd agree with Solid on the amount of movement. It'll move differently depending on engine RPM and if the HVAC cycles on or off.

 

[digglesworth]

I watched it today while the engine was idling and hvac system off. It was nowhere near 1/2" either way... That would equate to 1" of total movement. That seems like a TON of slop. I had maybe 1/8" either way. What I really noticed the bolt that mounts the tensioner... There seemed to be some play in the whole tensioner where its bolted down. I may put a torque wrench on it to make sure the vibration hasn't loosened the mounting bolt.

 

[Dennis]

This past Spring I replaced the whole kit-n-kabootle..and that would be: The entire tensioner assy, the Idler pulley, the fan clutch, the water pump and the Serpentine Belt (all ACDelco parts)...Reason; There was a rumbling like noise from that area of the engine. So rather than take sh!t apart over and over again, as things do systematically fail..I did it once, all at once...

 

[digglesworth]

I was looking things over after sorting out the issue with the rattling air box. I happened to look at the tensioner and noticed it was a little wobbly. I didn't know how much movement was acceptable. I don't hear any crazy noises up there, thankfully...

 

[Happy Hummer]

Hey dennis!
Wondering if you could better describe the noise? Ive been getting a wierd noise on Happy and have determined it is originating at the front pulley area. Already replaced belt and tensioner. Now starting to wonder if tensioner was poor quality or if idle pulley is crapn out.

Chris